ESpN news: Rams former no.1 star has set the door open for a possible return, gives conditions.
After ten seasons in the NFL, Aaron Donald declared his retirement this offseason. However, one of his Los Angeles Rams colleagues hinted that he might play again in the future.
If Aaron Donald decides to come out of retirement this season, Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp has hinted that a position is still open.
After an incredible 10-season career in which he was one of the league’s most disruptive defensive linemen, Donald—regarded as possibly the best defensive player in NFL history—shocked fans by announcing his retirement.
While the team’s potential fate this season is unsettling to think about after Donald’s departure, Kupp recently disclosed in an NFL Network interview that Aaron’s locker is still “up and ready if he ever wants to come back”.
In an emotional statement after Donald’s retirement, Kupp went on to say, “I’m so happy for him… but if he ever wanted to come back he’s more than welcome.”
The Rams are concentrating on building a new talent roster as they attempt to fill the vacuum left by Donald on their defensive line. According to the Mirror US, they selected Florida State defensive end Jared Verse in the first round and followed it up by selecting Verse’s teammate Braden Fiske in the second round.
The Rams, who were considered favorites for the 2023 season, surprised everyone by winning a playoff spot and finishing with a respectable 10-7 record. Following a thrilling season, Donald took some time to reflect on his future before declaring his retirement in March and making it plain that he had no intention of going into media or coaching after retirement.
“For ten years, I have been fortunate to play the game of football at the highest level,” Donald said in his poignant retirement statement. I’m grateful for the people I’ve met, the bonds I’ve formed, and the accomplishments I’ve shared with my teammates. On a personal note, I’d like to thank St. Louis for its love and support during my eight years as a Los Angeles Ram and my first two years in the league as a St. Louis Ram.”
“I would like to thank Los Angeles for the love and support throughout my career as well,” he continued, expressing his gratitude to the city. My family and I now call California home, and you all helped to make it even more memorable.”
“Throughout my career, I have given football everything I have—both mentally and physically—and I have dedicated 365 days of my life to being the best player I can be,” he continued. I have the utmost respect for this game, and I consider myself fortunate to be able to wrap up my NFL career with the team that picked me. Few people are drafted by a team, play for that team until they retire, and win a world championship. I refuse to take that for granted, and I never will.”
“I don’t know what the future holds as I shift my attention to a new chapter, but I’m enthusiastic about the opportunities off the field. I’m excited to spend more time with my children, Jaeda, AJ, Aaric, and Aali, as well as my wife, Erica. The best part was having them play this game with me, and I can’t wait to see them fulfill their dreams as much as they have watched me fulfill mine.”